Wednesday, April 29, 2015
CrockPot Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese and Sour Cream Recipe
Day 320.
psst. Make these potatoes. You wont be sorry.
This is one of those recipes where I wonder if the crockpot is really necessary, or is it just being used to keep the potatoes warm. You have to use the stove to boil the potatoes, and then you smash them with the cream cheese and the sour cream.
I suppose you could argue that the crockpot isnt necessary, but I used it. Because it makes me happy, and thats what I do.
These potatoes are too good to not share, and Ill let you be the judge about whether or not the crockpot is a necessary tool.
The Ingredients.
--5 pounds of red potatoes
--1 block of cream cheese, room temperature (8 oz. I used light)
--1 cup sour cream (I used light)
--1 chicken bouillon cube (EDIT: in the photo up above I used Knorr, which does contain MSG. I have since learned about Better than Bouillon, which I can find in my local grocery store and is MSG-free.)
--1/2 cup of water, reserved from boiling the potatoes
--1 tsp garlic powder
--1 T dried parsley
The Directions.
Wash and peel the potatoes, leaving the skin on some if desired. Cut in quarters to quicken boiling time. Put the pieces into a large pot and cover completely with water.
Bring the potatoes to a boil on the stove top. Boil rapidly for 10-20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
Scoop out 1/2 cup of the water from the pot. Add the bouillon cube to the water. Drain the potatoes, and return to pot.
Open the cream cheese and put into the pot with the hot potatoes. Add sour cream. Pour in the water with the bouillon cube, also. Add the parsley and garlic powder.
Mash with a potato masher. If you dont have a masher, the way that I seem to not, you can use a wire wisk. Itll work just fine.
After smashing well, scoop the potatoes out of the pot and place into a 4 to 6 quart crockpot. Cook on high for 2 hours, or on low for 4. Can be kept on warm indefinitely. After two hours on high, my potatoes got a bit crusty on the top and edges.
They were divine.
The Verdict.
So very good. My kids seemed to have thought that these were spicy (makes no sense whatsoever) and werent thrilled with the bits of skin I left on. I like a bit of skin, and so does Adam, but apparently the kids find it highly offensive.
I gave a quart to our friends, and they loved them. I will make these for Thanksgiving.
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Tobacco effect on Human Body Brain and Life
Today tobacco is the greatest killer oh humanity. It kills half of its users. In world over 6 billion people die due to tobacco use every year. Over five billion due to direct smoking and over 600,000 due to indirect smoking. This is an amazing fact that 80% of tobacco consumers live in low or middle income countries. Children of poor householders those are engaged in tobacco farming suffers from “Green Tobacco Disease”. Further tobacco is responsible for one among ten adult deaths. Tobacco caused hundred million deaths in 20th century if current trend continues it will cause one billion deaths in 21 century. Second hand smoke is the smoke which fills restaurant when people burn cigarettes, bidis and water pipes. There are more than 4000 chemicals in tobacco smoke of which at least 250 are known to be harmful and 40 cause cancer. In 2004 the cause of death of 28% children was second hand smoke.
Smoking’s greatest killer is circulatory
or cardiovascular diseases. If you ask people why they smoke, they will say that smoking helps them to cope with stress. They are true Nicotine found in smoke reaches to mind in ten seconds and reduces stress and depression but it does so temporarily. In this way mind carves again and again for nicotine and smoking becomes a habit. Smoking harms nearly every organ of the body. It causes cancer of lungs, pancreas, brain tumor and many other harmful diseases. Again all the forms of tobacco products, smoke less or smoke full are harmful and contains cancer causing chemicals. Smoking is also a type of addiction. Nicotine is a chemical present naturally in tobacco plant and is responsible for this addiction. During the smoking, nicotine enters the lungs and absorbed into bloodstreams quickly, reaches to brain within seconds. Nicotine produces the addiction to cigarettes and tobacco products that is similar to the addiction caused by heroin and cocaine.
People think that Hookahs are less harmful then bidis and cigarettes as the smoke passes through water, but it is also as harmful as any other tobacco product. It contains carbon monoxide and cancer causing chemicals. Water pipes are responsible for lungs throat and larynx cancer. Smoking also causes heart disease, stroke, aortic aneurysm (a balloon-like bulge in an artery in the chest), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (chronic bronchitis and emphysema), asthma, hip fractures, and cataracts. Smokers are at higher risk of developing pneumonia and other airway infections. A pregnant lady smoker is at risk of having her baby born too early and with abnormally low weight. Also a lady smoking after the pregnancy increases the chance of sudden infant death due to second hand smoke. In this way smoking is not only harmful to smoker it is also harmful to non-smoker, by causing similar diseases in them and leading to premature death of children.
There can be both social and personal reasons for smoking. There is great possibility of smoking for a child living in the society of smokers. Many youths take their first puff because their friends are smokers. People also smoke to reduce their stress. Also there is no such tobacco product which is less hazardous than cigarettes and no less amount of tobacco which is safe. So the only way to stop its harm is to quit tobacco. There are many immediate benefits of quitting tobacco. Heart rate, blood pressure which is abnormally high begins to return at normal level. Within a few hours the level of carbon mono oxide begins to decline. Carbon mono oxide reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. Within a few weeks, people who quit have improved circulation, produce less phlegm and don’t cough as often. Within several months of quitting people can expect improvement in lungs function. Also people will have an improved sense of smell and food will taste better.
Quitting smoking reduces the chances of cancer and other smoke generated diseases. People who quit smoking earlier are less likely to suffer from the disease than the people who continue it. Further people who quit before the age of 30 reduce the chances of premature death and 90% percent chances of smoking-related diseases. People who quit at 50 reduces the chances of smoking related diseases 50% and who quit at 60 survive longer than those who still continue. Quitting smoking lowers the risk of cancer. Those who already diagnosed with cancer should also bother to quit as it help the body to heal with therapy. So quitting smoking is always beneficial. So never take another puff if you want to save your life.
Smoking’s greatest killer is circulatory
People think that Hookahs are less harmful then bidis and cigarettes as the smoke passes through water, but it is also as harmful as any other tobacco product. It contains carbon monoxide and cancer causing chemicals. Water pipes are responsible for lungs throat and larynx cancer. Smoking also causes heart disease, stroke, aortic aneurysm (a balloon-like bulge in an artery in the chest), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (chronic bronchitis and emphysema), asthma, hip fractures, and cataracts. Smokers are at higher risk of developing pneumonia and other airway infections. A pregnant lady smoker is at risk of having her baby born too early and with abnormally low weight. Also a lady smoking after the pregnancy increases the chance of sudden infant death due to second hand smoke. In this way smoking is not only harmful to smoker it is also harmful to non-smoker, by causing similar diseases in them and leading to premature death of children.
There can be both social and personal reasons for smoking. There is great possibility of smoking for a child living in the society of smokers. Many youths take their first puff because their friends are smokers. People also smoke to reduce their stress. Also there is no such tobacco product which is less hazardous than cigarettes and no less amount of tobacco which is safe. So the only way to stop its harm is to quit tobacco. There are many immediate benefits of quitting tobacco. Heart rate, blood pressure which is abnormally high begins to return at normal level. Within a few hours the level of carbon mono oxide begins to decline. Carbon mono oxide reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. Within a few weeks, people who quit have improved circulation, produce less phlegm and don’t cough as often. Within several months of quitting people can expect improvement in lungs function. Also people will have an improved sense of smell and food will taste better.
Quitting smoking reduces the chances of cancer and other smoke generated diseases. People who quit smoking earlier are less likely to suffer from the disease than the people who continue it. Further people who quit before the age of 30 reduce the chances of premature death and 90% percent chances of smoking-related diseases. People who quit at 50 reduces the chances of smoking related diseases 50% and who quit at 60 survive longer than those who still continue. Quitting smoking lowers the risk of cancer. Those who already diagnosed with cancer should also bother to quit as it help the body to heal with therapy. So quitting smoking is always beneficial. So never take another puff if you want to save your life.
Monday, April 27, 2015
The Mediterranean diet benefits and characteristics
In addition to the cardiovascular benefits, anti-cancer effects and Alzheimer disease anti, know that Mediterranean food also decreases by 30% the risk of depression ...
Heres another argument to get you to go to the Mediterranean diet.
What is the relationship between depression and the Mediterranean diet?
The relationship between depression and the Mediterranean diet has been shown from a population of 10,000 adults followed for 4 years.
According to their eating habits, they were divided into 5 groups, with the two extremes, a diet that was closest to the Mediterranean diet and a diet that walked away from the most.
Thus, this first food mode is based on a large consumption of fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, olive oil, etc., while the other included instead of processed foods, fried foods, meat, refined grains, dairy, sugary desserts ...
Late in the study, 480 cases of depression were diagnosed.
It is thus found that a diet high in processed products, that is to say the opposite of the Mediterranean diet is associated with a 58% increase in the risk of depression. Conversely, the closest to the Mediterranean diet feeding reduces the risk of depression by 30%.
How to explain this link between mood and Mediterranean diet?
It is possible that the effects are due to the richness in antioxidants, folate, omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids.
The 10 characteristics of the Mediterranean diet :
- Significant portion of fruits and vegetables.
- High intake of legumes and seeds.
- Olive oil consumption but low intake of animal fats.
- High intake of whole grains.
- Common herbs and spices. Use
- Moderate to high consumption of fish.
- Low consumption of meat, especially red meat.
- Moderate intake of dairy products.
- Moderate wine consumption.
- Friendliness meals.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
CrockPot Blueberry Buckle Recipe
Day 203.
I picked up a copy of Good Housekeepings Quick & Simple magazine over the weekend, solely because there was a large headline that read "Oprahs Favorite Summer Treats!"And I wondered what they could be.
I was tickled when I read that one of Oprahs favorites was a blueberry buckle, or cobbler. I knew that I could find a way to convert this recipe to MY favorite way of being Quick & Simple: I used the CrockPot.
The Ingredients.
This serves 4, in two ramekins that I put inside of a 6qt crockpot. If youd like to omit the step of adding ramekins and only have a large CrockPot (4qts or larger), double the recipe to serve 8, to ensure that there is enough inside of the crockpot so it wont burn on you. CrockPots work the best when they are at least 2/3 of the way full.
I also cut the sugar content back, and used plain non-fat yogurt instead of buttermilk.
Crumble:
--2 T granulated sugar
--2T dark brown sugar
--1/4 cup of flour (I used Pamelas Baking Mix)
--1/4 t ground cinnamon
--2 T butter, melted
Filling:
--2 cups fresh blueberries (if you do not have access to fresh, use unsweetened frozen)
--1/2 T lemon juice
--1/4 cup non-fat plain yogurt
--1/2 cup flour (Pamelas)
--3 T granulated sugar
--1 egg
The Directions.
The original recipe called for three steps, and I found that a bit confusing. They suggested keeping the crumble topping, the filling, and the batter all separate and layering the filling and the batter a few times before adding the crumb topping. I omitted those steps and combined the filling and batter.
This is what I did:
In a large glass bowl, mix all ingredients for the filling, except for the blueberries. Wash and pick any remaining stems off of your blueberries, and then toss them in the bowl with the filling. Set aside.
In a different glass bowl, melt your butter, and add the dry ingredients. Mix. The crumbs will be moist, and crumbly.
If you are using ramekins, place them into the bottom of your crockpot to ensure a proper fit. Spray the ramekins with cooking spray. If you are going to put the batter directly into the crockpot, spray the stoneware with cooking spray.
Put the blueberry filling evenly into the ramekins, or dump directly into your crockpot. Add the crumb topping.
Cover and cook on high for 3-5 hours, removing the lid of the crockpot during the last 45 minutes or so to crisp up the topping. This dessert is finished when the crumb topping has set and is no longer dough-y. I cooked ours on high for exactly 4 hours. The crumb topping was set, and was a bit crisp on the outer edges, but remained a bit damp in the center. This didnt bother us, but if youd like it set a bit more, cook longer.
The Verdict.
Oprahs favorite is now our favorite, too! The blueberries had a perfect mix between sweet and tartness, and the crumb topping was sweet, without being overkill.
I would make this again and again.
I liked the ease of the crockpot for this dish---I got everything assembled and plugged it in during the mid-afternoon. After dinner we cleaned up and went to the park, and then came home to a nice warm bubbly dessert. It was very nice to not be stuck inside on oven-watch.
Saturday, April 25, 2015
CrockPot Hoisin Chicken Wings Recipe
Day 223.
I love wings. I used to think that my love of wings was limited to those of the Buffalo variety, but in the past year or two my love has grown. I will gladly order a sampler appetizer platter of wings, or skip the pizza when out and stick just to the wings.
Ive made teriyaki wings this year, and some sweet and spicy. Yesterday, I felt like Hoisin.
The Ingredients.
--2-3 lbs frozen chicken wings or drummettes
--1/2 cup prepared Hoisin Sauce (or your own, recipe down below)
--1/4 cup honey
--4-5 garlic cloves, smashed and chopped
--1 inch of ginger, peeled and grated
--1 T sesame oil
Homemade Hoisin Sauce
4 T of soy sauce (La Choy and Tamari-wheat free are GF)
2 T peanut butter
1 T molasses or honey
2 chopped garlic cloves
2 t sesame oil
1 t hot sauce (I used Thai red chili paste; Tabasco or similar would work)
1/8 t ground black pepper
The Directions.
I used a 4 qt round crockpot for this dish. It was a perfect size.
Dump chicken into crockpot. Add the Hoisin sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5. Stir well to mix flavors.
Cook on high for another 30 minutes.
The Verdict.
These were great! I love chicken wings.
My three-year old ate 7 or 8 and asked for me to make them for her birthday.
Friday, April 24, 2015
ADJUST YOUR DIET TO PREVENT CANCER!
Through our diet we can affect the development of cancer and its evolution. We all can gradually change our way to feed us and transform our diet in preventive weapon cancers! For each food category that change and in what direction?
Fruits and vegetables galore
Rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, fruits and vegetables often act early in the cancer process, helping the cells to protect against environmental aggressions (tobacco, pollution, asbestos, solvents, radiation ...). Thus fruits and vegetables reduce the risk of cancer of the upper aerodigestive tract (mouth, larynx, pharynx, esophagus), lung, stomach, bladder and cervix. Fruits and vegetables contain lots of water and are thus very low in calories, which helps reduce the risk of overweight and obesity. Or obesity is itself an important risk factor for most cancers, and particularly cancers of the colon, breast, cervix, kidney and lung. The third advantage of vegetables (especially when cooked) is their fiber content, which is also found in greater quantities still in cereals and legumes.
Cereals and legumes: choose full or half-full
They bring energy as carbohydrate, but mostly, they are rich in fiber. These fibers pass into the colon and will help eliminate carcinogenic compounds to the diet. Indirectly, they also facilitate the elimination of estrogen hormones which enhance the proliferation of breast cancer tumor cells. In the end, cereals and legumes help prevent cancers of the colon and breast. But the fibers are also known to reduce the risk of overweight and obesity. Note that the complete or semi-complete cereals (who kept their shell, called "sound") contribute to the intake of vitamins and minerals.
Milk, dairy products and cheeses in moderation
Dairy products are very interesting for their intakes of calcium, a mineral element critical to the construction and maintenance of the skeleton, which is also known to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. However, it will not be abused because they are high in calories and high in saturated acids, promoting excess weight. Furthermore, in excess and in adolescence, dairy products may induce excessive growth and thus promote breast, ovarian and colorectal cancer.
Meat and charcuterie: limit
Red meat increases the risk of colorectal and prostate cancer. It is therefore recommended to limit quantities and opt for diversification by replacing several red meat dishes per week per fish, poultry, eggs, cereals and legumes. Moreover, it is better to be wary of cooking: a overcooked meat is carcinogenic while the fat burning grill are also toxic. Meat said transformed or meats, are severely limiting because they contain excessive amounts of salt and chemicals. In the end, to prevent cancer, its best to settle for a meat intake twice a week and a protein meal a day focusing poultry, eggs and fish.
Fats: keep only the good fats
Fats (lipids) are concentrated energy and calories. They therefore indirectly promote obesity and cancer. The total fatty acid intake also promotes directly colorectal, breast and endometrium. Overall, it is the saturated fats and hydrogenated trans that are harmful to health. We find the first mainly in animal products (meat, cheese, butter ...) and second in industrial products (pastries, cookies, cakes, donuts, breadcrumbs, etc.). We must therefore limit these products and focus on vegetable fats: olive oil and rapeseed particular.
Fish: 2 times a week or more
The effect of fish is particularly well demonstrated in preventing colon cancer. The strength of the fish is its richness in omega-3 fatty acids, especially the fattier fish such as sardines, salmon, herring ... Note that omega-3 found in fish are also beneficial to the cardiovascular and also to prevent neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimers disease.
Food and drinks sweetened: limit
Please note, cancer cells "feed" of sugar. Sweetened products are therefore limited. Priority should be given foods with a low glycemic index, the insulin spike after concommation remains moderate. Furthermore, consumption of sugary products (which are also often very bold) promotes weight gain, which is to be avoided to prevent cancer.
Alcoholic beverages: eliminate!
If one drink per meal can be positive vis-Ã -vis cardiovascular disease, it is not the same for cancer. Once a glass of alcohol, the risk of cancer increases. If it is difficult to choose, it must at least respect extreme moderation. For your overall health, do not exceed 1-6 drinks per week and avoid intoxication!
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Smoky Country Style BBQ Ribs in the Slow Cooker
A few years ago I was in a Buffalo Wing phase--- my tongue itched for the spicy tang of Buffalo Wing sauce pretty much always.
It was a fun time.
This year, though, I seem to be on a rib kick. I love testing out new BBQ restaurants and trying to recreate the "oh-this-is-the-best-sauce-ever" flavor at home.
and in the crockpot.
I think weve hit the jackpot with this particular combination. The sauce has the perfect blend of twang, sweet, smoke, and heat without needing to brown the ribs beforehand, leave the house, or get dressed.
I used 3.5 pounds of pork baby back ribs, but you can certainly use beef if youd like, or use this sauce on chicken thighs. I did NOT brown the meat at all--- the color shown up above was achieved solely in the slow cooker.
The Ingredients.
serves 4, unless youre really hungry.
3-4 pounds ribs
1 large yellow onion, sliced in rings
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Kosher salt 1 (12-ounce) bottle chili sauce (in the ketchup aisle)
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (read labels for gluten. Lea & Perrins, made in the USA is GF)
4 chopped garlic cloves
1/2 to 1 teaspoon Tabasco Sauce
1/4 teaspoon Liquid Smoke
The Directions.
Use a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Cut the rack of ribs in half with a large knife or poultry scissors and make sure they fit all the way in the cooker, with the lid on. Now take them out.
Place the sliced onion in your pot, then put the ribs back in. Combine the dried ingredients: brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this mixture all over the ribs.
Wash your hands well.
Now combine the wet ingredients: chili sauce, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, Tabasco, and Liquid Smoke. Pour this mixture evenly over the top of your ribs.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the meat is tender, and has begun to pull away from the bone. The longer you cook the meat, the more tender it will become. Before serving, flip the ribs over a few times to get all sides nice and saucy.
The Verdict.
These are lick your fingers (and your forearms) good. Yum.
I could put this sauce on an old tire.
more ribs? no problem!
Easy Beef BBQ Ribs
Greek-Spiced Ribs
Lemon Pepper Ribs
Orange Chipotle Ribs
Korean Ribs
Hawaiian Ribs
Red Ribs
Red Ribs
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
I Had A Cranberry Party
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| plateful of cranberry goodness |
A few weeks ago I had a cranberry party. And I only had to make one thing with cranberry juice, but Im a total over-achiever and made FIVE things. BOO-YAH!
(recipes below!)
The Back Story:
The Simply Cranberry Cocktail people (through BlogHer) contacted me and asked if Id like to throw a dinner party and use their new Simply Cranberry Cocktail as a springboard for the menu-planning.
(recipes below!)
The Back Story:
The Simply Cranberry Cocktail people (through BlogHer) contacted me and asked if Id like to throw a dinner party and use their new Simply Cranberry Cocktail as a springboard for the menu-planning.
I was already familiar with the Simply Orange Juice Company--we like their orange and apple juice an awful lot, and Im a complete and total sucker for a challenge.
Before I responded, I texted Adam:
"Hey, we need to have a cranberry juice party, sort of an Iron Chef thing. You cool with that?"
He wrote back: "a la cuisine!"
I love that man.
I was given coupons for Simply Cranberry Cocktail by the Simply Orange Juice Company, and BlogHer paid me for my time and to purchase supplies for our cranberry party.
I then set to work planning the menu: baked brie with cranberries, cranberry martinis, cranberry chicken, triple-threat cranberry brisket, and cranberry fluff for dessert (scroll down for all the recipes).
I then set to work planning the menu: baked brie with cranberries, cranberry martinis, cranberry chicken, triple-threat cranberry brisket, and cranberry fluff for dessert (scroll down for all the recipes).
To round out the meal I also roasted asparagus and made mashed potatoes (out of a box! Capital K classy, I tell you...).
Just so you know: Simply Cranberry Cocktail can be found in the refrigerated section of the grocery store; it is kept chilled from the time it is blended with not-from-concentrate cranberry juice and gently pasteurized with no added preservatives. Its sweet and tart and unlike other cranberry juice cocktails in that you dont shudder after drinking it.
I decided this was a really good excuse to buy cranberry red tablecloths and retire the ecru tablecloths I usually dig out of the china cabinet. (Im pretty sure stained and bleached and then stained and bleached tablecloths are ecru. Right?)
Since we were having our party on April Fools Day, I also bought silly straws and nose glasses for everyone out of the dollar bins at Target.
I invited my two best friends (guess what their names are? did you guess? wait for it... wait for it...
JENNIFER and JENNIFER) and their families. This meant we had 6 adults and 9 children for our dinner party. I set up two tables, with the idea that the kids would be at one and the grownups could sit at the other, and wed all sit down and have sparkling dinner conversation and lovely table manners.
Bree Van de Kamp Hodge would be so proud.
(of course shes on trial for murder right now, but I think Gaby is about to confess.)
(of course shes on trial for murder right now, but I think Gaby is about to confess.)
It was wonderful.
I need to have dinner parties more often. I think sometimes in the name of saving money I forget its the little things in life that matter--good friends, good food, and good fun.
I need to have dinner parties more often. I think sometimes in the name of saving money I forget its the little things in life that matter--good friends, good food, and good fun.
Someone else picking up the bill is awfully nice, too.
Thank you Simply Cranberry Cocktail !!
Recipes:
I dont have any photos of the brie because I may have already had a cranberry martini (or 2? not sure) before I thought to take pictures, and by then we pretty much killed the whole thing.
I used the candied pecan and cranberry brie recipe I made back in 2008 but didnt use the pecans because one of our little friends has a nut allergy. I did, though, add a drop of balsamic vinegar to the brown sugar and a bit of rosemary they way I did with the balsamic apricot brie.
I used the candied pecan and cranberry brie recipe I made back in 2008 but didnt use the pecans because one of our little friends has a nut allergy. I did, though, add a drop of balsamic vinegar to the brown sugar and a bit of rosemary they way I did with the balsamic apricot brie.
8 ounce-brie round
1 cup dried cranberries
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon crushed rosemary
Stir topping together and place on top of the brie. Place the brie into an oven-safe bowl or dish and plop it into a slow cooker for about 2 hours, or until melty and gooey and delicious. Serve with apple slices and your favorite crackers. Im not supposed to name brand names in this post, but we used the popular round gluten free crackers that come in the white box. Email me if you dont know what Im talking about!
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Cranberry Martinis
Since The Cocktail Lady was at our house I figured Id use her expertise, and we came up with the most awesomest cranberry martini recipe ever. She also lent me her drink shaker because I accidentally gave away the one we got as a wedding present in one of our many moves.
Thanks, Jen! xoxo
Fill the drink shaker half-full or so with ice.
For each drink, add:
1 shot Simply Cranberry Cocktail
1 shot citrus flavored vodka
1/2 shot Triple Sec
1/2 shot Sweet and Sour Mix
Shake well and serve in chilled martini glasses with sugared rims. (Adam did the glasses by rubbing a cut lime on the edge then dipping the glasses in Bakers Sugar. He froze them for 2 hours or so before the party).
We were able to double this recipe and get two drinks in each shaker.
And they rocked.
Srsly.
Cranberry Glazed Chicken:
4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 large onion, peeled and diced
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons gluten free soy sauce
1 (16-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
1/2 cup Simply Cranberry Cocktail
1 lime, juiced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
Use a 6-quart slow cooker. Place the chicken into the bottom of your cooker (frozen is fine). Add diced onion and garlic. In a mixing bowl whisk together the soy sauce, cranberry sauce, and juices. Pour this mixture evenly over the top of your chicken. Cover, and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or until chicken is fully cooked (if you cook it longer, it’ll shred—it’s up to you!)
With tongs, carefully remove the chicken and place on a serving platter. Whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into your slow cooker to thicken, then serve over mashed potatoes or polenta.
Triple Threat Cranberry Brisket:
5 pound beef brisket
1 onion, peeled and diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (16-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
1/4 cup gluten free soy sauce
1/2 cup Simply Cranberry Cocktail
1/4 cup dried cranberries
Use a 6-quart slow cooker. Place the meat into the bottom of your slow cooker insert. Add onion and garlic. In a mixing bowl, mix together the can of cranberry sauce, soy sauce, juice, and dried cranberries. Pour this combination evenly over the top of the meat. Cover, and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for about 6 hours. Your meat is finished when it has begun to lose it’s shape and can pull apart easily with a fork. Serve over mashed potatoes with a spoonful of sauce.
Cranberry Fluff Dessert
I was channeling TW from Retro-Food.com when I decided to serve this dessert. I knew I wanted something we could all eat together and didnt want a big production (think ice-cream bar) or a huge mess to deal with later (again, think ice-cream bar). But I wanted the kids to like it and the adults to at least give it a half-hearted thumbs up.
I was WAY SURPRISED. We licked the pyrex clean. All 6 adults and 9 children couldnt get enough.
2 cups boiling water
2 (4-ounce) packages cherry gelatin dessert
1 cup Simply Cranberry Cocktail
1 (8-ounce) container whipped dessert topping, room temperature, divided
1 (15-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
1 package shortbread cookies (or something similar. Ours were gluten free, of course!)
Whisk the dried gelatin powder with the boiling water until its completely dissolved. Whisk in the juice, and then refrigerate the mixing bowl for 90 minutes. You want the gelatin slightly set, but not really.
Now stir in 2 cups of the dessert topping and the entire can of cranberry sauce. Pour this mixture into a 9 x 9 glass baking pan. Refrigerate for 4 hours, or until completely set. Spread on the additional whipped topping and dot with shortbread cookies.
Cranberry retro yumminess. Its tart, but not too tart, and sweet, but not too sweet.
It was the perfect end to a perfect night. And you know it was good when you wake up to this in the morning:
I had so much fun and feel so lucky to have the best friends ever. Thank you to Simply Cranberry Cocktail for giving me an excuse to have a party. And for the realization that I shouldnt have to have an excuse to have friends over--I should just do it!
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Im pretty sure were not going to have a UTI anytime soon...
Guess what?
Simply Cranberry Cocktail understands that sometimes its just not possible to have a spur-of-the moment party when youre busy living your life and all "extra" (HA on the extra!) income goes towards retirement, or college, or braces, or new tires. So they are offering to help out by giving one lucky winner a $100 Visa gift card to spend however youd like.
Maybe youd like to have a cranberry party of your very own?
What is your favorite way to make a party or get together at your home more festive? Tell me about it in the comments for a chance to win a $100 gift card.
Rules:
P.S: I didnt make these up.
No duplicate comments.
You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:
a) Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post
b) Tweet about this promotion and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post
c) Blog about this promotion and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post
d) For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.
This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older. Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.
Ill randomly select a winner from the responses (leave an email address or sign in so I can find you!) and will make sure the gift card gets sent out promptly.
The Official Rules are available here.
This sweepstakes runs from 5/7/2012 - 6/1/2012
updated 6/2/12: This CONTEST IS NOW OVER. A representative from BlogHer will contact the randomly selected winner. THANK YOU to all who entered!
Be sure to visit the Promotions & Prizes page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ reviews and find more chances to win!
"Simply Cranberry™" is a trademark of Simply Orange Juice Company.
BOO-YAH!
P.S: I didnt make these up.
No duplicate comments.
You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:
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d) For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.
This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older. Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.
Ill randomly select a winner from the responses (leave an email address or sign in so I can find you!) and will make sure the gift card gets sent out promptly.
The Official Rules are available here.
This sweepstakes runs from 5/7/2012 - 6/1/2012
updated 6/2/12: This CONTEST IS NOW OVER. A representative from BlogHer will contact the randomly selected winner. THANK YOU to all who entered!
Be sure to visit the Promotions & Prizes page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ reviews and find more chances to win!
"Simply Cranberry™" is a trademark of Simply Orange Juice Company.
BOO-YAH!
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
PRODUCTS FOR WEIGHT LOSS WARNING
In the successful slimming market, there are countless products sold with the promise of "to lose weight." Some are of the scam, others are downright dangerous.
An understandable dream
One can easily understand the dream of all those who have pounds to lose: pop a pill or any other product and thus lose weight as fast as possible. Lose weight with a balanced low-calorie diet and increase physical activity require some effort and time. The more pounds to eliminate are, the more the temptation is to yield to sirens pills, capsules, teas, fat burners, cut cravings, etc.
Diuretics and laxatives
Diuretics remove water, salt and potassium. But they do not lose fat or cellulite. We may lose two to three pounds of water. Upon discontinuation of treatment, the dried body takes its course and the lost weight back. To maintain this weight loss artificial, we must take the time. Consequences: dehydration, voltage drop, constant tiredness, dizziness, fainting and heart rhythm disorders, sometimes mortar. The laxatives cause diarrhea that prevent nutrients from being absorbed, including water and potassium. When used daily, we reach the same state with the use of diuretics and the same consequences.
draining drinks
Green tea, pineapple, black currant, fennel, red wine, etc., the choice is yours, green tea with the most booming! None of these products can make you lose weight because it has no effect on fat. They act on the water in the body, such as diuretics
Homeopathy, true and false
True homeopathic doctors always prescribe a low calorie diet along with some granules that facilitate weight loss. However, we will never know whether these granules have a placebo effect or are really active. There are doctors who, under the guise of homeopathy, require complicated preparations that contain diuretics and thyroid hormones while their use is to lose weight prohibited. These activate all metabolism and make losing fat but also muscle. They create hot flashes, sweating, palpitations, nervousness and heart problems that can cause death. One must always be wary of a prescription made complicated Latin names and only an accomplice pharmacist specified by the doctor can make.
Hazardous appetite suppressant
Since 1999, an appetite suppressant, very used to lose weight, are banned in France, but can be easily found for sale on the Internet. Amphetamines (doping) and their derivatives are sometimes found in these dangerous capsules called "homeopathic." Phenylpropanolamine also. It is a nasal decongestant prescribed as an appetite suppressant in the United States that could cause a brain hemorrhage. It is now banned.
slimming patches
They are supposed herbal burn calories stored in adipose tissue that would neutralize the property of snacking. They promise to lose weight without dieting. But it takes two patches per day (75 ?? Box 30) to get a result. In the absence of scientific studies proving the results, we can assume that this system falls under the scam.
Fillers stomach
Some products from algae or fibers are intended to suppress appetite. The principle is simple: arrivals in the stomach, they swell with water (it is recommended to drink at the same time). They occupy the place and erase the feeling of hunger. You eat less, so you lose weight. This is no immediate danger to health, but it must balance his diet.
Monday, April 20, 2015
How to choose the scales
With good weather looming and the test of the jersey, you decided to take your hand and body to monitor your line.
The scale is essential to help you monitor your weight tool.
Today, there are many models to features and options. The scales mechanical device connected, the choice is vast. It all depends on what you expect from him.
To see more clearly, we have reviewed.
The scale mechanics: the most classic
It is the oldest and most basic balance model.
It indicates the weight by a needle. Before mounting the device, it is recommended to set the reset with a knob for this purpose.
The main advantage of the scales is its mechanical strength and resistance because it is a model that lasts over time. Its affordable, also makes it accessible to all.
However, it remains a little unclear on the displayed weight (300 g,) because it has a scale of 500 grams to 1 kilo. It is therefore intended for people to watch their weight is not an obsession but just a way to control that they remain relatively stable. Despite its more contemporary design, this type of model remains still cumbersome in a small space.
The electronic scales: the most common
This is the scales, the most common market.
It is on a liquid crystal display, offering a comfortable reading, youll see your weight.
Unlike the mechanical version, the electronic balance has a highly reliable method of measurement and thus shows a very specific weight, often around 100 grams. It allows to control reliably the evolution of it over time or over time and is aimed primarily at people who follow dieting and those who want to respond like clockwork.
It can carry a load of 160 kg to 180 kg. In addition to its accuracy, this object appears, generally, design and comfortable look with its rounded forms and natural materials such as glass or treated wood against moisture ...
The scale impedance: most accurate
If however you want to measure accurately and consistently different parameters in addition to your weight through a diet, you can opt for a device combining scales, and impedance.
Calculate your overall weight in a very precise way and measure your rate of muscle and fat (sometimes also water) contained in your body this unit aims. The impedance allows you to see, if weight gain, for example, if you took more muscle or fat!
At first use, you just have to record information on your gender, weight and height. Then, each weighing an electric current (imperceptible) sent from the balance to the body identifies areas less rich in fat water and therefore less susceptible to electricity and tells you as a percentage where you are.
One option: the scale memory
To enjoy your electronic scale and monitor the progress of your weight, choose a memory model.
This option allows you to record the actions and save your every weighing. Most devices have several memories so that under the same roof each to retain its own data.
The scale connected: Smart Balance
A new generation of scales, equipped with Wi-Fi connection, you can at any time from your computer, tablet or smartphone to get an accurate track of your weight chart and see live results your efforts.
When you step on the scale, instantly updating occurs. "Connected devices can calculate in an instant and with great accuracy the weight, BMI ... Easy to use, thanks to the analysis (graphs, curves ...) they allow to be located in one shot of eye against average and recommendations established, "says one in Terraillon.
To obtain reliable results:
Weigh yourself preferably in the morning on an empty stomach, after going to the bathroom, if possible without clothes and dry hair.
Position your feet symmetrically to balance the weight of your body on the whole plateau and upright posture.
Weigh yourself regularly (once a week is more than enough).
Sunday, April 19, 2015
Giving Thanks
We return thanks to our Mother, the Earth, which sustains us.
We return thanks to the rivers and streams,
which supply us with water.
We return thanks to all herbs,
which furnish medicines for the cure of our diseases.
We return thanks to the moon and stars,
which have given to us their light when the sun was gone.
We return thanks to the sun,
that has looked upon the earth with a beneficent eye.
Lastly, we return thanks to the Great Spirit,
in whom is embodied all goodness,
and who directs all things for the good of her children.
~ an Iroquois Thanksgiving Prayer (adapted)
However you celebrate and whatever you choose to eat,
wishing each of you a bountiful and beautiful Thanksgiving.
I certainly count you among my blessings.
Thank you.
We return thanks to the rivers and streams,
which supply us with water.
We return thanks to all herbs,
which furnish medicines for the cure of our diseases.
We return thanks to the moon and stars,
which have given to us their light when the sun was gone.
We return thanks to the sun,
that has looked upon the earth with a beneficent eye.
Lastly, we return thanks to the Great Spirit,
in whom is embodied all goodness,
and who directs all things for the good of her children.
~ an Iroquois Thanksgiving Prayer (adapted)
However you celebrate and whatever you choose to eat,
wishing each of you a bountiful and beautiful Thanksgiving.
I certainly count you among my blessings.
Thank you.
Saturday, April 18, 2015
Health Food Passion or Dangerous Obsession
With all the size zero spree on, there is a major portion of people who have made eating healthy their obsession. The print media, social media along with the television always promote beauty in such a way that everybody aspires to have it, many people start eating healthy to look good and maintain themselves. This is good but when it goes beyond just passion and starts falling into the category of obsession that is where the real worriment and bothering really begins. The obsession for healthy food is not just a little problem that could be looked away or given a blind eye. This is something serious, though the numbers of people who develop a bizarre fetish with this often require special care and counseling.
Health Food Passion and Social Life
Health food passion might be slightly different from the obsession of being thin. People who develop health food obsession often infatuate themselves to just one kind of food. For instance a vegetarian who do away with any sort of meat even in small portions might be thought of a person with an obsession of healthy food.
Considering the fact that our body needs proportioned, well-balanced and nourishing portions of food that give right amount of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates and fats. Any of these if remain absent from our diet for a long time may develop a deficiency in our body causing various diseases and this might be perilous for our body. The issues are not just tangible, these also include psychological acuteness. A person that develops obsession to only one kind of food may feel guilty after eating something else, refusing to stray from that fixated diet distresses them and puts them through great mental anxiety. Often the people become sensitive about the things they eat, this might make them anti-social, they might also avoid being in gatherings where dine outs are involved, such behavior make them alienated. These people pose a danger to not only their physical health but also have adverse affects on their social well being.
Considering the fact that our body needs proportioned, well-balanced and nourishing portions of food that give right amount of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates and fats. Any of these if remain absent from our diet for a long time may develop a deficiency in our body causing various diseases and this might be perilous for our body. The issues are not just tangible, these also include psychological acuteness. A person that develops obsession to only one kind of food may feel guilty after eating something else, refusing to stray from that fixated diet distresses them and puts them through great mental anxiety. Often the people become sensitive about the things they eat, this might make them anti-social, they might also avoid being in gatherings where dine outs are involved, such behavior make them alienated. These people pose a danger to not only their physical health but also have adverse affects on their social well being.
Passion or Obsession
It is often difficult to even single out a person with health obsession. With all the hype on being thin, slim and looking good, many times people overlook the obsession that a person might have developed which is often looked at as the passion. The passion over casts the obsession, so the person himself might not know it what to talk about others.
A Specialist Should be Consulted
Eating healthy is in no way dangerous to health but to fixating yourself to only one kind of food might be dangerous is many ways. Sometimes it’s important not to have a lot of information but to have the right kind of information that directs you. Reading pages over pages of diet books, magazines and articles on internet might not help you, all the information is not authentic and many times the written information might not suit your body type and lifestyle. It is always important to seek some professional help. A dietitian and nutritionist must always be consulted. A specialist could help you with your physical needs allowing you to have a balanced life.Friday, April 17, 2015
Hyperaldosteronism Or CONNs Syndrome Explained and Treatment
Aldosterone is a mineral corticoid produced and released from the most superficial layer or zona glomerulosa of adrenal cortex. Cortisol which is a glucocorticoid and de-hydro-epiandosterone which is a sex hormone is produced and released from the deeper layers: zona fasciculata and zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex.
Aldosterone also stimulates cells of large intestine, mammary glands, sweat glands and salivary glands to do the same functions. Aldosterone function may also be performed by its pre-cursors de-oxy-corticosterone and corticosterone.
- In the cells of zona glomerulosa aldosterone is synthesized and released:
- Cholesterol is taken from low density lipoproteins by the mitrochondria.
- Cholesterol is converted to pregnenolone in mitrochondria. Pregnenolone is then taken up by endoplasmic reticulum and converted to progesterone.
- Progesterone is converted to deoxycorticosterone in endoplasmic reticulum.
- Deoxycorticosterone is again taken up by mitrochondria and converted first to corticosterone and then to aldosterone.
Aldosterone also stimulates cells of large intestine, mammary glands, sweat glands and salivary glands to do the same functions. Aldosterone function may also be performed by its pre-cursors de-oxy-corticosterone and corticosterone.
Prolonged aldosterone excess:
Hypernatremia (Increased concentration of sodium in blood) +water retention leading to hypertension, hypokalemia (decreased concentration of potassium in blood), alkalosis or formation of HCO3- due to excessive H+ excretion.Prolonged aldosterone deficiency:
Hyponatremia + water loss, hyperkalemia, acidosis or formation of H2CO3.
Coticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) released by the hypothalamus acts on corticotropes (CRH releasing cells) of anterior pituitary to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ATCH). ACTH mainly acts on fasciculata and reticularis cells and causes release of cortisol and dehydro-epiandosterone. The secretion of aldosterone from glomerulosa cells is mainly stimulated by renin-angiotensin system, little by ACTH and hyperkalemia.
Coticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) released by the hypothalamus acts on corticotropes (CRH releasing cells) of anterior pituitary to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ATCH). ACTH mainly acts on fasciculata and reticularis cells and causes release of cortisol and dehydro-epiandosterone. The secretion of aldosterone from glomerulosa cells is mainly stimulated by renin-angiotensin system, little by ACTH and hyperkalemia.
Renin-angiotensin system:
It is performed by the juxta-glomerular apparatus. The juxta-glomerular apparatus consists of part of the distal convulated tubule that is surrounded by a V-shaped fork formed by the afferent and efferent arteriole moving to and from the glomerulus. The smooth muscles of the arterioles forming the V-shaped fork are called granular cells. During low blood pressure, the granuler cells produce a substance called renin. Renin converts angiotensin (a plasma protein found in blood secreted by the liver cells) to angiotensin1. When blood containing angiotensin1 passes through the pulmonary capillaries an enzyme there, angiotensin converting enzyme converts angiotensin1 to angiotensin2.
Angiotensin2 acts on smooth muscles of blood vessels causing their vasoconstriction. Angiotensin2 also acts on granular cells inhibiting renin release by negative feedback. It acts on liver cells and stimulates them to release more angiotensin by positive feedback. It also acts on glomerulosa cells and stimulates them to release aldosterone. Opposite to that, low angiotensin2 levels in the blood stimulate granular cells to secrete renin so that more angiotensin2 can be produced.
Low BP causes renin release so that there can be vasoconstriction. The opposite is also true i.e. inhibition of renin in response to high BP.
Angiotensin2 acts on smooth muscles of blood vessels causing their vasoconstriction. Angiotensin2 also acts on granular cells inhibiting renin release by negative feedback. It acts on liver cells and stimulates them to release more angiotensin by positive feedback. It also acts on glomerulosa cells and stimulates them to release aldosterone. Opposite to that, low angiotensin2 levels in the blood stimulate granular cells to secrete renin so that more angiotensin2 can be produced.
Low BP causes renin release so that there can be vasoconstriction. The opposite is also true i.e. inhibition of renin in response to high BP.
Causes of low BP:
Dehydration, hemorrhage, shock, stenosis of renal artery or low BP caused by movement from supine to erect position.
Catecholamines can also act on beta adrenergic receptors on luminal surface of granular cells and stimulate them to release renin which causes production of angiotensin2. Angiotensin2 acts on smooth muscles of arteries and causes vasoconstriction.
Catecholamines can also act on beta adrenergic receptors on luminal surface of granular cells and stimulate them to release renin which causes production of angiotensin2. Angiotensin2 acts on smooth muscles of arteries and causes vasoconstriction.
Primary hyperaldosteronism or CONN’S syndrome:
Characterized by increased Na+ retention, water retention, hypertension, increased ECF expansion volume, hypokalemia, and alkalosis. High blood pressure is detected by receptors on the luminal surface of granular cells, inhibiting renin production.
Diagnosis: plasma with increased aldosterone and decreased renin.
Diagnosis: plasma with increased aldosterone and decreased renin.
Causes of CONN’S syndrome:
- Adrenal adenoma.
- Bilateral hyperplasia of adrenal glands which may be due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH):
It is caused by genetic defect in one of the enzymes that converts 17-hydroxy-pregnenolone to cortisol. Decrease in cortisol stimulates the cells of hypothalamus to secrete corticotropin stimulating hormone (that in turn causes the release of ACTH) and the corticotropes to release ACTH. Excessive release of ACTH causes hyperplasia of adrenal cortex.
Secondary hyperaldostronism:
Different from primary as plasma sample contains both high aldosterone and renin. It is due to hypersecretion of renin secondary to granular cell tumor or low renal perfusion pressure. Therefore it is characterized by hypovolemia while primary hyperaldosteronism is characterized by hyper-volemia. A third distinguishing factor is that alkalosis is seen in primary but not in secondary because due to hypervolemia HCO3- is excreted in urine.
Treatment of primary and secondary hyperaldosteronism:
It is aimed at decreasing the levels of aldosterone to decrease the symptoms. Aldactone is a drug mainly given for primary hyperaldosteronism. It competitively binds with aldosterone sensitive receptors on epithelial cells of distal convulated tubule and acts as an antagonist causing excretion of Na+ and water while retaining K+ and H+. In CAH cortisol is injected which inhibits corticotropin releasing hormone by negative feedback. The glomerulosa cells can detect both high levels of aldosterone and cortisol and in response the cells inhibit aldosterone release. In normal physiology an enzyme secreted by the granular cells binds to cortisol and does not allow it to perform its inhibitory effect on zona glomerulosa cells so that cortisol levels have no regulatory action on aldosterone. Glycirrhizic acid injected into plasma can bind with the enzyme, letting cortisol free to act on zona glomerulosa cells and inhibit release of aldosterone. Following glycirrhizic acid injection, cortisol is given that freely performs inhibition of aldosterone.
In blood sample:
Primary hyperaldosteronism: decrease in renin due to negative feedback caused by high levels of aldosterone.
Secondary hyperaldosteronism: increase in renin due to low BP.
Pseudo-hyperaldosteronism: hypertension, hypokalemia and acidosis are the symptoms but plasma levels are not high in aldosterone. It is due to genetic defect in the Na+, K+ and H+ pumps in distal convulated tubular cells that are retaining Na+ and excreting K+ and H+.
In blood sample:
Primary hyperaldosteronism: decrease in renin due to negative feedback caused by high levels of aldosterone.
Secondary hyperaldosteronism: increase in renin due to low BP.
Pseudo-hyperaldosteronism: hypertension, hypokalemia and acidosis are the symptoms but plasma levels are not high in aldosterone. It is due to genetic defect in the Na+, K+ and H+ pumps in distal convulated tubular cells that are retaining Na+ and excreting K+ and H+.
Thursday, April 16, 2015
How to Make Candles in the CrockPot
Day 323.
Dont look now, but the gift-giving Holidays are just around the corner.
But its okay, because you can make candles. Cheaply (or for free!) with your crockpot.
I love candles, especially inexpensive ones, and scented with food: vanilla, cookie dough, pumpkin pie, apple cinnamon, coffee, and gingerbread. I am the happiest after lighting a yummy-scented candle.
For a while, I was getting up at 4am, and drank coffee in the dark with a few lit candles before beginning the day. It was quite peaceful.
Because of this love, I have quite a few candles that dont light anymore, but the jar/glass container still has trapped wax.
Yesterday, I took the wax out of 9 of these candles, and made 3 new ones. Al Gore would be so proud of me.
I also used some soy wax that I got at Michaels to make 3 others. It was a fun project, and now that I know how, one I will do quite often.
The Ingredients.
--old candles in glass containers(or empty glass containers and wax suitable for candle-making from the craft store)
--3 inch wicks (this size works well for the tiny candles sold at the dollar store, the Glade candles, etc.)
--candle fragrance, essential oil, or cooking extract
--candle coloring dye (not food coloring, sigh.)
The Directions.
Freeze the jars with the leftover trapped candle wax. Use a steak knife to pop the wax out of
the jar/glass container. If your container is tapered, youll need to chop the wax up with the knife before it can fall out. Cut away the old wick and discard. Chop the wax into small pieces--about 1/2 inch square or thereabouts.
Wash the containers well in soapy water and dry completely.
Fill each glass with the chopped up
wax. I put the wick in, but you dont need to until the wax has melted. If you are going to use soy wax, or another store-bought wax, fill the glass container the same way.Nestle the containers into your crockpot. I got 6 to fit nicely in a 6.5 quart oval.
Cover and cook on high for 2 hours, checking every 30 minutes.
When the wax is completely liquidy, add your color and scent. Food coloring doesnt work. I tried it. Mix with a wooden skewer, and lower in the wicks.Unplug the crockpot. Let the candles sit in the cooling crockpot for about 4 hours, or until they have set enough to move.
Do not use for 12 hours.
Light and enjoy.
The Verdict.
I wish I could say that this was a fun project I did with the kids, but Id be lying. One was at school, and the other was in the backyard. She poked her head in a few times but I shooed her back out. This was my art project. Im looking forward to trying this again, and getting some of the different colors and scents they have at the craft store. The peppermint extract worked, but I think Ill use an essential oil next time for a more pronounced scent. Im very pleased with the results--even the splotchy ones made with food coloring.
updated: anon just reminded me about crayons! I agree that they might work quite well to create a color. I learned from the crayons-in-the-crock experiment that Crayola melt the nicest.
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